Moving from Orlando to Arizona: Cost, Companies & Checklist
If you're moving from Orlando to Arizona, you've got 2,088 miles ahead and some real choices to make. I've compiled the movers worth calling, what you'll actually spend, and the lifestyle shifts that matter most when you're trading Florida humidity for Arizona heat.
Best Moving Companies from Orlando to Arizona
Out of 41 Orlando-based movers that handle interstate moves, here are the five that stand out for Arizona relocations:
- 1776 Moving and Storage, Inc. — 4.7 / 5 stars
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving — 4.64 / 5 stars
- Cento Family Moving & Storage — 4.64 / 5 stars
- Flex Moving & Storage — 4.56 / 5 stars
- 1st Class Moving and Storage — 4.58 / 5 stars
1776 Moving and Storage, Inc.
4.7 / 5 | Grade A+ (BBB) | 51 Yelp reviews | 438 Google reviews
1776 earns consistent praise for crews who show up on time, pack with care, and finish faster than quoted. Seventy-one percent of reviews highlight professional, hardworking teams and transparent pricing with no surprises. The company has been in business 13 years and handles everything from local moves to piano relocations and full crating.
The downside: roughly 26% of feedback mentions property damage, difficulty resolving claims, and occasional cost overruns. If damage occurs, their claims process can drag.
Bottom line: Pick this crew if punctuality and professionalism matter most. Just clarify damage coverage upfront.
Contact: (407) 251-4770
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
4.64 / 5 | Grade A+ (BBB) | 198 Yelp reviews | 9,002 Google reviews
College Hunks has 14 years of operation and a strong reputation for fast, friendly service. About 77% of 402 reviews praise quick turnaround, polite staff, and careful handling. Movers frequently finish ahead of schedule, and customers note transparent pricing and solid communication.
The catch: 22% complain about damaged items, unexpected final costs higher than the estimate, and unclear add-on fees. A few customers reported furniture damage without smooth claims resolution.
Bottom line: Reliable for straightforward moves, but watch for scope creep on pricing. Get everything in writing.
Contact: (336) 810-1801
Cento Family Moving & Storage
4.64 / 5 | Grade A+ (BBB) | 25 Yelp reviews | 327 Google reviews
Cento has been moving people for 11 years and earns 68% positive feedback from 40 reviews. Customers praise their professional, polite staff and careful handling of fragile items—especially art and antiques. Moves often finish on schedule, and communication is clear.
The challenge: 33% of reviews cite damaged or lost items as the main grievance. Some customers also report poor communication during claims or inaccurate quotes leading to higher-than-expected bills.
Bottom line: Good if you value skilled, polite service. Just be explicit about coverage limits and get estimates in writing.
Contact: (407) 265-6683
Flex Moving & Storage
4.56 / 5 | Grade B (BBB) | 52 Yelp reviews | 298 Google reviews
Flex has been in business only 2 years but draws high marks for friendly, efficient crews. Ninety-three percent of 255 reviews highlight courteous movers, fast completion, and undamaged arrivals. Many customers praise responsive communication and timely service.
The risks: About 6% report damaged items, hidden charges, or poor follow-up on complaints. A few describe difficulty recovering property or getting insurance clarity.
Bottom line: Great for straightforward moves with good speed. Less experienced at damage claims than longer-established competitors.
Contact: (786) 738-9516
1st Class Moving and Storage
4.58 / 5 | Grade A+ (BBB) | 19 Yelp reviews | 193 Google reviews
1st Class has 10 years of experience and earns over 91% positive reviews. Customers consistently praise professional, polite staff and efficient moves. Many report quick booking, fair pricing, and strong attention to detail with belongings.
The weakness: About 8% mention property damage and difficulty obtaining resolutions. Some cite poor response to complaints and lack of follow-up on damage claims.
Bottom line: Solid for dependable, efficient service. Claims handling could be stronger.
Contact: (407) 338-3524
Local Services Available in Orlando
Here's a snapshot of specialty services offered by Orlando moving companies:
- Interstate moves: 82.93%
- Small moves: 53.66%
- Antiques/Art: ~48.78% each
- Pianos: 80.49%
- Fragile-only packing: 17.07%
Cost to Move from Orlando to Arizona
Use the ranges below as a baseline. Keep in mind that final costs depend on exact belongings, season, add-ons, and market rates at the time you book. For a detailed estimate tailored to your situation, use the calculator.
| Move Size | Moving Company | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,020 – $4,067 | $1,093 – $2,820 | $1,195 – $2,152 |
| 2–3 bedrooms | $2,949 – $5,993 | $1,965 – $4,217 | $1,232 – $2,717 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $5,366 – $8,943 | $2,887 – $5,584 | $1,585 – $3,361 |
These estimates are based on a 2,088-mile move and include typical fuel costs. Actual charges vary by season, access constraints, and service scope.
Hiring a Full-Service Mover
A full-service mover handles packing, loading, transport, unloading, and unpacking. For a studio or one-bedroom from Orlando to Arizona, expect $1,020–$4,067. Two to three bedrooms run $2,949–$5,993. A larger household of four-plus bedrooms typically costs $5,366–$8,943.
Using Moving Containers
If you prefer to pack yourself and let the container company handle transport, costs run lower than full-service movers. For a small load, budget $1,093–$2,820. For two to three bedrooms, $1,965–$4,217. For four-plus bedrooms, $2,887–$5,584. Explore moving container companies to compare rates.
Renting a Truck
Rental trucks are the budget option, but you're doing all the heavy lifting yourself. A studio or one-bedroom in a rental truck costs $1,195–$2,152. Two to three bedrooms run $1,232–$2,717. Four-plus bedrooms hit $1,585–$3,361 (fuel included). See truck rental options for providers.
What Affects Your Moving Cost
- Move size: Larger homes and more belongings directly increase your total.
- Season: Summer moves (June–August) command higher rates due to demand.
- Service type: Full-service costs more than containers or truck rentals, but you're paying for convenience and labor.
- Distance & route: 2,088 miles is a long haul, and fuel prices fluctuate monthly.
- Timing on short notice: Booking last-minute typically means higher rates or fewer availability.
Cost of Living: Orlando vs. Arizona
Before you move, check how expenses stack up. Here's what the data shows:
| Factor | Orlando, FL | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $1,943 | $1,308 |
| Average home price | $377,005 | $428,711 |
| Average income (per capita) | $58,968 | $72,581 |
| Cost of living index | 106 | 107 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.8% | 3.6% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 2.5% |
Key Takeaways
Rent is 33% cheaper in Arizona. You'll save about $635 per month on a typical lease—real money for building savings or reinvesting.
Home prices are 14% higher in Arizona. If you're buying, expect a larger mortgage payment. The median home in Arizona runs about $51,706 more than in Orlando.
Average earnings are 23% higher. Arizona's median per capita income is roughly $13,613 above Orlando's, which can help offset that state income tax hit.
Cost of living is nearly identical. Both states sit around index 106–107, so groceries, utilities, and everyday expenses won't shock you.
Unemployment is 38% lower in Arizona. Job prospects are stronger—Arizona's 3.6% unemployment rate beats Orlando's 5.8%.
Arizona has state income tax; Florida doesn't. This is the biggest gotcha. You'll owe 2.5% state income tax in Arizona, which reduces take-home pay even if gross income rises. Factor this into your financial planning.
Lifestyle Differences: Orlando vs. Arizona
Climate
Summer heat: Arizona peaks at 99°F versus Orlando's 92°F. That extra 7 degrees means hotter AC bills and adjusted outdoor habits. Arizona days are bright and dry; Orlando is humid.
Winter: Arizona dips to 34°F while Orlando stays around 49°F. You'll face real winter in Arizona—and snow, roughly 6 inches per year compared to Orlando's zero.
Rainfall: Arizona gets about 12 inches annually; Orlando receives 52 inches. Arizona is drier, which means more predictable outdoor planning but also lower humidity and water-conscious living.
Population & Politics
Size: Arizona is vastly larger—7.4 million people versus Orlando's 307,000. You're moving from a mid-sized city to a major metro area.
Political lean: Both lean Democratic in recent elections, so you won't be shocked by the political environment, though Arizona's politics are more polarized statewide.
Safety
Crime index: Arizona's is 24.89; Orlando's is 49.57. Arizona is significantly safer overall, though crime varies by neighborhood—research your specific area.
What to Know Before Moving to Arizona
HOA and Building Rules
If you're moving into a community with an HOA, check their moving-day policies early. Some restrict moving times or require advance notice. Residential buildings may have elevator reservations or noise restrictions—book that elevator weeks ahead if needed.
Parking Permits
Some Arizona cities require parking permits for moving trucks. Check your city's municipal code before moving day to avoid surprises or fines.
State Licensing
Although Arizona is relatively unregulated compared to other states, moving companies must comply with the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures. Verify your mover's license before booking.
Change of Address
Submit your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. This ensures mail forwarding to Arizona starts on your official move date.
Moving Insurance
Standard "Released Value Protection" provided by movers covers only 60 cents per pound per item—meaning a 25-pound TV is worth $15 in a claim. For full-value coverage, ask your mover about options or purchase third-party insurance.
Moving Checklist
Use our moving checklist to stay organized and ensure nothing falls through the cracks as your move date approaches.
Attractions in Arizona
Museums
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
- Commemorative Air Force Museum
- Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
- Jerome State Historic Park
Parks & Natural Wonders
- Canyon de Chelly National Monument
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Saguaro National Park
- Sunset Crater & Wupatki National Monuments
- Walnut Canyon National Monument
Sports Teams
- Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
- Phoenix Suns (NBA)
- Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
- Arizona Coyotes (NHL)
- Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
Universities
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
- Northern Arizona University
- American Indian College
- Carrington College
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an Orlando-to-Arizona move take?
Most moves take 6 to 17 days depending on the service type. Full-service movers are faster than container or truck rental options. Summer moves can stretch longer due to demand. Ask your mover for a specific delivery window before you commit.
How many Orlando movers offer custom crating?
About 29 movers in the Orlando area can build custom crates for art, antiques, electronics, and other fragile items. Confirm that materials and dimensions match your specific item before booking.
What's the best way to ship a car from Orlando to Arizona?
For car shipping, you want professionals who handle your vehicle with care. Compare rates and reviews among auto transport companies that specialize in this route.
Why are people moving from Orlando to Arizona?
Job growth, lower unemployment, and Arizona's drier climate attract people looking for career opportunities and a change of scenery. The cost of living is comparable, but job prospects are stronger.
Can I pay a mover with cash?
About 13 movers in Orlando accept cash, though it's uncommon in the industry. Most prefer credit card or check for a paper trail. Expect to pay a deposit upfront to secure your date, with the balance due at pickup or delivery.
Compare Your Options
Ready to move? Get moving quotes from Orlando-based carriers to see actual pricing for your situation. Compare at least three estimates before deciding—rates and service levels vary widely, and 15 minutes of comparing now saves headaches later.